SPEX Sedona Philosophy Experience The Grand Questions Colorado River trip June 2-June 10, 2017

Contents: THIS IS AN EXPEDITION BEFORE AND AFTER TRIP LOGISTICS THE TRIP CAMPING EQUIPMENT PROVIDED PACKING LIST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS TRIP MAP

THIS IS AN EXPEDITION This is an extraordinary vacation and may be unlike any other experience you and your guests have ever had. Please review this information as it is important to us that you and everyone on your reservation are prepared for the trip. Keep in mind the anticipated rigors of the trip; good health and physical condition are musts for this rafting adventure.

A Grand Canyon rafting trip often presents challenges to those already compromised with poor health or physical fitness. Please strongly consider and discuss any challenges with your doctor. Beyond the active itinerary, camp safety is essential. Camp life may entail moving around and over rocks, climbing steep, sandy beaches, and cautiously crossing slick or sticky mud. In addition, living outdoors for several days in a desert environment can quickly impact one’s health and stamina. Weather conditions vary from extreme heat to extreme cold, heavy rain, strong winds, and blowing sand. We encourage you to use the following questions to help think about the ideal level of endurance and stamina needed.

Can you: • Ascend and descend two flights of stairs carrying a 20 pound without using a handrail? • Get up on top of a kitchen counter, stand up, and return to the floor without using a stool? • Climb several sets of stairs while urgently needing the bathroom? • Rise from a seated position from the ground to standing up to 30 times a day? • Balance a plate of food on your lap while eating? • Suspend your weight from a pull up bar for 15 seconds?

This trip is doable for most adventurers and for many newcomers as well. After reviewing this information, contact me if you have any concerns: Email [email protected] or call 928-380-1682. BEFORE AND AFTER TRIP LOGISTICS The trip begins in Flagstaff, AZ June 2, 2017 at 9 AM and ends in Flagstaff, AZ June 10th between 3-7 PM.

You should be in Flagstaff, AZ the night before on June 1, 2017 for an orientation meeting at 7 PM at the Double Tree by Hilton Flagstaff (928-773-8888). Many guests may choose to stay at the Double Tree the night before the trip and the night after, and will receive a discount through AzRA. These nights are not included in the Grand Questions River trip price.

Refer to the “AzRA” rooming block to receive a preferred room rate, which is reasonable and competitive for the Flagstaff area. The room rate does change yearly, so please refer to your trip logistics document in your detailed information or online trip portfolio for current pricing. The AzRA room rate is only guaranteed for the night before your trip departs and the evening of the return. If you need additional nights, you will be charged the going rate. The DoubleTree books up quickly so it is important that you make your reservation well in advance. There are other hotels in the area including the Days Inn (928-774-5221), Comfort Inn (928-774-2225), Howard Johnson Inn (928-774-3381), Ramada (928-773-1111), Travelodge (928-213-5800), Fairfield Inn by Marriott (928-773-1300), and Motel 6 (928-779-3757). If you choose to stay at another hotel, you are responsible for arranging your own transportation to and from the DoubleTree.

Orientation Meeting We hold a meeting at 7:00 p.m. at the DoubleTree Flagstaff the night before your trip. It is imperative that you attend this meeting. You will receive one personal gear and one day dry bag at this time. (Your sleeping unit will already be at Lee’s Ferry). We will review last minute details such as packing your gear, beverages, luggage and vehicle storage arrangements, and answer any last minute questions.

Vehicle and Extra Luggage Storage You may park a vehicle in the parking lot at the DoubleTree for the duration of your trip. We will also store any extra luggage you have and return it to you at the end of your trip. There is no extra charge for these services. PLEASE limit luggage storage to one piece per person!

June 2, 2017 departure from Flagstaff On Friday June 2, at 9 AM we will meet in front of the DoubleTree and board shuttles to the south rim of the Grand Canyon. At this time everything that you are taking on the trip must be in your two dry and loaded on the shuttle. At the south rim you will have several options to take short hikes along the rim, down into the canyon a short distance, or stay in the shade visiting tourist shops and historical exhibits at the Grand Canyon village. We will have lunch at the El Tovar Hotel.

We will then drive east along South Rim drive to various overlooks to enjoy the Grand Canyon from above. We will end up at the Desert View Watchtower for dinner and to watch the sunset over the canyon. We will then drive half an hour to Cameron, AZ where we will stay the night at the historic Navajo Trading Post. This will be your last warm shower for the next eight days, so enjoy it!

First river day Saturday morning, June 3, we will get up and have breakfast at 7 AM and jump on the AzRA bus at 9 AM. We will arrive at Lees Ferry, the launch site, at around 11 AM to load the rafts and push off at noon. From here on out your meals will be provided by AzRA on the banks of the Colorado River. A , sleeping pad, a tent, and a camp chair will be on the raft for each guest to use each night in camp.

Last river day On Saturday, June 10th you will arrive at Diamond Creek (the take-out location) mid- morning on the last day. It can be a bitter-sweet experience as everyone comes together one last time to unload the boats. It can be hot and there isn’t much shade. Although somewhat hectic, the expedition and team experience continues as your trip begins the clean-up process and loads river gear on the truck.

We will then take you back to the DoubleTree in Flagstaff. The first 19 miles of the trip back to Flagstaff is on Diamond Creek Road. This stretch of road can be quite rough. It is a dirt road that runs down a wash and can be extremely bumpy, dusty and it usually takes about an hour to get to a paved road. However, it is a beautiful drive and can be an adventure in itself! The trip from the river back to Flagstaff takes about 3 hours with lunch provided along the way and one bathroom break. When you arrive at the DoubleTree, we will greet you with your stored luggage. Red River Sports souvenirs will also be available. Arrival time at the DoubleTree is usually between 3-7 p.m. however we cannot guarantee this arrival time. Since we cannot guarantee the return time, we highly recommend staying at the DoubleTree that evening and travel the next day. Many trips gather in Flagstaff for a post-trip celebration dinner the evening of the return.

THE TRIP 8 days, Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek*, 226 river miles

Group size: 12 guests, plus 3 philosopher guides, and 2 AzRA raft guides.

*Diamond Creek road is a dirt road alongside Diamond Creek Wash and is the only road to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Although rare, it is possible in the case of severe flooding in Diamond Creek, that the road can become impassable. If this were to happen on the day of your take-out, we may have to continue down the river to Pearce Ferry Road at river mile 279, in which case, return time to Flagstaff could be late in the evening (or in extremely unusual cases, the following morning).

Motorized Raft: The boats are 34 feet in length and 15 feet wide. This sturdy and stable design is a superb way to experience the Grand Canyon and still offers excitement through the rapids. Arizona Raft Adventures pioneered the use of small, four-stroke outboard engines specially designed to minimize noise output, save fuel and reduce emissions. The roomy floor plan provides a comfortable seating arrangement and allows you the opportunity to get up and stretch your legs while the boat is moving. Our moderate group size allows space to spread out on the raft.

CAMPING Grand Canyon camping is simply amazing. Guests and guides alike love camp life for so many reasons; such as the sandy beaches, the incredible sunrises, sunsets, and night skies, relaxing with friends and family, moments of private reflection, hiking opportunities, delicious prepared meals and winding down after a fun adventure filled day. Each trip is different and there is no pre-set camping location itinerary for your trip.

The campsites in Grand Canyon are primitive and usually large beaches with plenty of natural landscape including vegetation and rocks. Most of the camps have spots scattered within the natural landscape that will make a perfect place for you to set up your personal camp area (sleeping bag, tent and personal gear). When you arrive at the stopping point for the day, we encourage everyone to pitch in and help the guides unload the boats. Don’t worry, if you are unable to assist with unloading the boats, we are sure there will be plenty of other people to help.

One of the first things to come off the boats after arriving at camp will be the personal waterproof bags and sleeping pads. You will have three waterproof bags. The first one has the majority of your clothing in it, the second has your sleeping kit (sleeping bag, tarp and sheet) in it and the third one is a smaller bag where you keep your items that you want access to during the day. The tents are stored all together in a larger sized dry bag. After the boats are unloaded, you will set off to make yourself a nest for the evening.

Your guides will demonstrate how to set up our tents on the first night. Most guests choose to sleep out under the stars; it is usually warm and there are few insects. As long as the sky is clear, sleeping under the stars is an incredible experience. The night sky is indescribable.

While you are setting up your personal camping spot, the guides will be setting up the kitchen area and the bathroom or “groover” as we call it. In the kitchen, we will set up a stove-table, a “prep table” and a dish wash line. Several dry-boxes will be situated in the kitchen that contain all the pots, plates and utensils. Located near the kitchen area you will also find the water filtration system. The set-up consists of a .2 micron ceramic depth filter and a bucket of river water awaiting filtering. Water is filtered into clean water and then unscented chlorine bleach drops are used in a small quantity of one part per million to kill any remaining virus per the Park Service regulation. In addition to the camp filtration, you will also find a camp trash receptacle and a first aid kit located somewhere in or near the kitchen area. The kitchen is often a fun place to hang out as the cook crew prepares dinner and you may even help if you wish!

The groover will be set in a discreet location from the central camping area. Sometimes, getting to the bathroom requires a small hike navigating through sand, large rocks and elevation. It is usually surrounded by some natural landscaping providing both privacy and scenery. The toilet paper is positioned at the hand washing station located somewhere along the trail. If the container is gone, this indicates that the bathroom is being used. Because we carry out all garbage (including human waste) the bathroom area includes two “units”, one for liquid waste and one for solid waste, each topped with a toilet seat.

In the morning, you will get up when you hear the “coffee call.” After you walk half dazed in a slumber to the kitchen for your first cup of coffee or tea, you will return to your sleeping area to begin breaking down your camp. Breakfast is usually not far behind the coffee. After breakfast, the guides will begin repacking the boats for another exciting day on the river. They will appreciate your help loading the dry bags and other camp items back on the boats.

HIKING Hiking through the side canyons of the Grand Canyon is a major attribute to a raft trip down the Colorado River with Arizona Raft Adventures. You can anticipate a side hike almost daily; they will vary in length, difficulty, and scenery. You may hike a side canyon with walls towering high over your head up to a beautiful waterfall or maybe a longer, more difficult hike across the dry desert. You might hike to ancient ruins or to view evidence from the early river running years. Most of the trails in the Grand Canyon are not maintained. The general rule of thumb is that there are no easy hikes in the Grand Canyon and hike conditions may include some or all of the following:

 wading through creeks with swift current  climbing over hot boulders  navigating in and around slippery spots  high and narrow ledges with steep drop-offs  soft sand and loose soil  scrambling moves requiring hand and leg strength  mud  intense sun exposure

Hikes can range anywhere from one to six hours long. There is no pre-set schedule for your trip and each trip ends up with its own unique schedule. If your trip spends most of the day hiking, you might spend more time on the water either the day before or the day after to make up river miles. The hiking will also vary due to unpredictable factors such as weather, water levels, input from you and the other participants and the range of abilities and interests of the group. We strongly recommend you be in the best fitness shape possible. We also offer you many hiking tips for adjusting to the challenges associated with side hiking opportunities in the Grand Canyon. Finally, be prepared to hike at any time as an itinerary can change on a dime. Keep your hiking shoes in your day bag.

The side hiking opportunities are optional*. You may also find a shady spot to relax, take a nap, journal, watercolor, fish or read.

*There are a couple of hiking stops where your guides may require you to hike a short distance in order to find shade or to move you to a safer location.

EQUIPMENT PROVIDED Below is a list of the rafting and camping equipment provided for your trip. One of the most important aspects of Grand Canyon trip, is the preparation that goes into planning your adventure.

Three Waterproof Dry Bags

Bag 1 – Empty Waterproof Bag for Day Use – We call this smaller bag “the white bag.” This bag is for items you need access to during the day. Although it is smaller than the other dry bag we provide, it has sufficient room to hold items recommended below. It is not a . To see a packing demonstration and measurements on this bag, click here. Things you might store in this bag include: water bottles, rain gear, long sleeve cotton shirt and pants (for sun protection), river guidebook, hip pack or small backpack for side hikes, hat, camera, sunglasses, polypropylene long underwear, binoculars, sunscreen, and hiking shoes. Bag 2 – Empty Waterproof Bag – We call this larger bag “the blue bag.” The bag is tubular shaped and opens from the top. This bag is cinched down tight during the day and you will not have access to it except when at camp. The bag is for your personal clothing, toiletries, etc. To see a packing demonstration and measurements on this bag, click here.

Bag 3 – Sleeping Unit – Consists of a sleeping bag (80″x35″), sheet liner (fleece liner provided for guests in the months of April and October), and a ground tarp . This bag is packed at our warehouse and will be waiting for you on your trip

Sleeping Pad – Used as padding on the boats during the day and comes to shore at camp each evening. 60″x 22″x 1 1/2″

Folding Camp Chair – A metal framed folding standard height camp chair is provided.

Tent – One free standing roomy two-man dome tent is provided for every two people on a reservation. Example: Reservation for 1 person receives 1 tent, reservation for 2 people receives 1 tent, reservation for 3 receives 2 tents, etc. You are welcome to set a tent up any or all nights but expect the guides to encourage you to sleep outside to experience the brilliant night sky.

Drink Bag – We provide a drink bag to take and store any additional drinks you bring with you on your trip.

Tumbler – Great for coffee, tea, or juice. Has AzRA logo and is yours to keep after the trip.

A guidebook – A waterproof mile by mile guidebook of the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. For you to keep!

Eating utensils – Knife, fork, spoon, bowl and plate

First Aid Supplies – You will have access to basic first aid supplies such as bandaids and ointments.

Toilet Paper – You do not need to bring your own toilet paper.

Groovette - Named after the groover–or camp toilet. A personal quart-sized plastic paint cup, typically used when urinating in the river or camp toilet is not ideal.

Personal Flotation Device – The National Park Service mandates all trip participants to wear the outfitters type V PFD/life jacket.

All meals and snacks – We provide hearty meals and snacks for in between meals.

PACKING LIST This packing list will help you prepare for your rafting adventure through Grand Canyon National Park. We say “the Canyon is not a “stuff” place,” and “less is more” but there are certain items you need to bring on your trip. The list is split into three catagories: recommended clothing, miscellaneous items, and optional items.

Recommended Clothing The most effective way to plan for temperature and weather changes in the Canyon is to be prepared for both hot & dry and cold & wet, April through October. The list is recommend for ALL seasons. PLEASE don’t be frustrated if you bring something you don’t use (even in the summer). The air temperatures can often exceed 100 degrees during the summer months and the Colorado River’s temperature is a constant 48- 52 degrees. Combine a cloudy, windy, or rainy summer afternoon with cold rapid water and you will understand why you need to be prepared for all extremes. With this in mind, pack according to your own tolerance for heat and cold. Here are two additional tips to help maintain a comfortable temperature through out the day: (1.) light colors are recommended in the summer and (2.) “layering” different key pieces of gear is key.

How much is enough or too much? Pack for the season and your personal needs. You should be prepared for temperature extremes in the Canyon. It is difficult for us to advise you of exact quantities (i.e. 2 shorts, 3 shirts, etc.), as everyone has different needs. Base quantities on trip length, month, and your own tolerance for heat and cold. Guests are frequently amazed at how much they can do without. On the other hand, if yours is the one trip a year with rain everyday, you’ll be glad you were prepared. Due to space limitations, please do not bring any more than can fit into your waterproof bag. It is also important to remember, although you will not have to carry your dry bags all day long, you will have to haul them back and forth at camp everyday. You might like to consult Red River Sports Retail for gear.

Rain Jacket and Rain Pant – Rain gear is used for protection from wind and spray from the rapids, as well as from rain showers. Look for waterproof rain gear with sealed seams and fitted wrist and leg cuffs. A rain jacket is essential all year (April- October); rain pants are important for spring and fall trips(April-May & September- October). Bring rain pants in the summer months if you are cold natured. Do not bring ponchos and plastic rain suits as they are not appropriate for this trip. Paddle jackets and paddle pants are also popular substitutions for rain gear and nice on spring and fall trips.

Polypropylene Long Underwear Top and Bottom – Polypropylene is a quick-dry performance material that wicks moisture away from your skin which keeps you warmer. There are many names for similar types of material such as capilene, coolmax, etc. This is another “must have” item. Although there are certainly times throughout the year that you may never use this item, weather in the Grand Canyon can be unpredictable and you should always have this item with you. Bring bottoms during the summer months if you are cold-natured. A second top and bottom might be useful during early spring and late fall trips.

Non-Cotton Base Layers – Women wear swim suits or quick dry underwear and sport bras as a base layer during the day. Over the base layer, wear a pair of quick dry shorts and the shirt of your choice (polypropylene if you are cold, cotton if you are hot). Two piece swim suits are convenient when changing or going to the bathroom.

Quick Drying Shorts – The best thing for men is to wear swim trunks as shorts. Women might want to consider a pair of quick dry shorts with a built-in underwear liner. Swim trunks and loose, nylon material dries fast, allows freedom of movement and does not chafe. Do not wear cotton shorts on the river.

Long Sleeve Cotton Shirt and Pants – Bring at least one long sleeve cotton t-shirt or button down shirt to help keep you cooler on hot days. Button down shirts provide more sun protection on the neck and are easier to put on and take off. Long sleeve nylon shirts with SPF are a popular second shirt. Bring lighter colors during the summer to help reflect the sun light. Pajama bottoms, hospital scrubs or light nylon pants provide additional protection on your legs.

Light Weight Cotton Pant, Nylon Pant or Sarong – These might be considered an optional item. They will help keep sun exposure to a minimum. Pajama bottoms and hospital scrubs are great cotton options. May be used as camp wear too.

Shirts – Cotton t-shirts, sport bras, and tank tops work well because cotton evaporatively cools you when it gets wet; an advantage during hot summer months. Polypropylene and capilene work well in cooler weather.

Hat – A large brim offers sun protection and a good quality stampede strap or cap strap keeps you from losing your hat in the wind or rapids. It is not a bad idea to bring an extra hat or visor just in case you need it.

Socks – Bring a cotton/synthetic blend for hiking and to protect your feet from the sun. Bring wool, polypropylene or neoprene socks to wear on the boats with booties or recreational sandals to keep feet warm. Keep one clean pair for the hike on the Bright Angel Trail if you are hiking out of the Canyon.

Fleece Hat – A wool or fleece hat is recommended during April-May and August- September or in the summer if you get cold easily.

Camp Wear – Bring something comfortable to wear around camp. Cotton dresses, skirts and sarongs are all popular options. Sarongs can also serve as sun protection during the day. You may also like cotton underwear along with cotton shorts and short sleeve shirts, tank top, or capri. Previous passengers have also suggested flip flops for camp.

Sleepwear – You might choose to sleep in your camp wear. Otherwise, you might like to bring something comfortable to sleep in.

Shoes – You will need shoes for hiking and boat wear. We recommend bringing two pairs. See footwear and care suggestions.

Miscellaneous Items

One Locking Carabiner – Pronounced cara “beener.” Used to secure your day dry bag to the boat. 4″ size with screw gate locking mechanism. Some customers have recommended a second carabiner to attach your to the outside of your day dry bag.

Water bottles/ – Hard plastic or polycarbonate bottles recommended (much like the Nalgene brand). It is recommended you are able to carry 3 quarts worth of water if you are hiking in or out of the canyon. You must have a strap on bottle so you can sling it over your shoulder or carry it in a pack to allow hands-free hiking. If you bring a hydration pack, bring a spare water bottle for mixing powdered drinks. Two quart carry capacity is appropriate for motor trips.

Sunglasses – 100% UV protection is recommended. You must have a retainer to keep from losing in the rapids. Having a second pair is a good idea but not necessary.

Small Day Pack or Lumbar/Hip Pack – For use on side hikes to carry water or camera. This pack is necessary to allow hands-free hiking. The waterproof day dry bag provided is not a backpack.

Moisturizing lotion – We recommend two bottles. Avoid lotions containing alcohol because it dries out your skin. Bring plenty!

Headlamp or flashlight – Headlamps are great for hands-free movement around camp. Don’t forget extra batteries!

Foot powder or ointment – Mole skin is recommended if you are hiking in or out of the canyon.

Eye glasses or contact lenses – Lens cleaner for contacts and an extra pair of prescription glasses are recommended. Some find contacts to be a bother in the wind and sand. For contact care suggestions, see the Frequently Asked Questions regarding personal hygiene.

Waterproof Sunscreen and Lip Balm – We recommend two bottles of 30 SPF.

Medications – If your medication is mandatory, a double prescription is recommended; one to be given to the trip leader for safe keeping. Diabetics should bring a glucose monitoring kit. You will have access to a fully-stocked first aid kit however if you routinely take an over-the-counter medication, you may want to bring your own supply.

Epi-Pen or Ana-kit – Individuals with allergic reactions or potential for an allergic reaction to insect bites or food must bring two.

Optional Items

Gloves – Guests recommend gloves for various reasons: warmth, climbing around on hot rocks, paddling, and to reduce exposure to the sun. Light cotton garden gloves work well for sun protection. Some people like neoprene gloves for the oar or paddle boats during the cooler seasons; a pair of light warm gloves for camp during April-early May or late September-October are often appreciated during the chilly early morning hours.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

TRIP MAP